Remember the classic line from action movies; "I'll pump you full of lead!" This remark refers to the threat of getting shot. However, nowadays, the threat takes on new meaning as we learn more about lead hazards in both outdoor and indoor shooting ranges.
Ammunition is made of lead traditionally, but it is recommended in the present day that ammunition, pellets, shot, etc. are made of steel. However, even when a gun range switches to steel ammunition, the lead dust in the barrel of the gun coats the bullets and is concentrated by the heat and shot out into the air, thus contaminating the shot, the air, and the walls (if it is an indoor range).
A very detailed article about the high incidence of lead poisoning associated with gun ranges can be found here.
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